Liquid applicator for coloring a liquid

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates generally to liquid applicators and a method of coloring a liquid. More specifically, the present invention relates to a liquid applicator having a flexible hollow body within which a liquid-filled, glass ampoule is received. The liquid applicator also has porous element containing colorant positioned such that when the ampoule is fractured, the liquid flows through the porous element containing colorant. Colorant is transferred to the liquid as it flows through the porous element. The resulting colored solution may be applied to the desired surface.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The application claims the benefit of priority to U.S.application Ser. No. 10/388,826 filed on Mar. 14, 2003.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not Applicable.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates generally to liquid applicators anda method of coloring a liquid. More specifically, the present inventionrelates to a liquid applicator having a flexible hollow body withinwhich a liquid-filled, glass ampoule is received. The liquid applicatoralso has porous element containing colorant positioned such that whenthe ampoule is fractured, the liquid flows through the porous elementcontaining colorant. Colorant is transferred to the liquid as it flowsthrough the porous element. The resulting colored solution may beapplied to the desired surface.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Applicators for applying liquids such as medicaments or cleansingagents are known in the prior art. Conventional applicators typicallyprovide a generally cylindrical body construction and include a glassampoule retained within the body; a sponge or tip secured to the body,at least one surface of which is exposed to the ampoule; and a means forfracturing the ampoule such that when the ampoule is fractured, theliquid stored therein is dispensed to the sponge for application.

[0005] When a non-colored or clear liquid is applied using theseapplicators, it is difficult for the user to see where the liquid hasbeen applied. Thus, in many situations, it is necessary to utilizecolored liquid so that the user knows where the liquid has been applied.For example, antiseptics or medicaments used as a pre-operative liquidare applied to the body just prior to surgery. It is essential that theuser be able see where the pre-operative liquid has been applied. If thepre-operative liquid is colored, it is easier for the user to discernwhere the liquid has been applied to the body.

[0006] However, it is difficult to apply a colored liquid using theseapplicators. Numerous problems are encountered when color, such as atint or dye, is added to a liquid using an applicator of this type. Forexample, when a tint or dye is added to a liquid, the shelf life of theliquid may be shortened and/or the colored solution may become unstable.A further problem is colorant may settle out of the liquid. If colorantsettles out of the liquid there may be non-uniform distribution of thecolored liquid when applied.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention provides a liquid applicator for applying adesired liquid to a surface, the applicator comprises: at least oneampoule formed of a frangible material and adapted to contain liquid tobe applied; at least one hollow body defining an internal chamberadapted to receive at least one ampoule; and at least one porous elementthat contains colorant, wherein the porous element may be a porous pluglocated between the ampoule and the open end of the body and/or theporous element may be a porous pad closing off an open end of the body,and wherein the porous element is positioned such that liquid flowsthrough the porous element when at least one ampoule is fractured andcolorant is transferred to the liquid to be applied.

[0008] The present invention further provides a method of making aporous plug containing colorant. The method comprises mixing water, dyeand isopropyl alcohol, saturating the porous plug with the mixture andallowing the porous plug to dry.

[0009] Accordingly, the present invention further provides a liquidapplicator for applying a desired liquid to a surface, the applicatorcomprises: at least one ampoule formed of a frangible material andadapted to contain liquid to be applied; at least one hollow bodydefining an internal chamber adapted to receive at least one ampoule; aporous plug containing colorant, such that liquid flows through theporous plug when the ampoule is fractured and colorant is transferred tothe liquid to be applied; and a porous pad secured to said body andclosing off an open end thereof, such that the colored liquid flowsthrough said porous pad.

[0010] By providing a liquid applicator in accordance with the presentinvention, numerous advantages are realized. For example, a user may usethe application to apply a stable colored liquid. Further, colorant willnot settle out of the liquid and cause non-uniform distribution ofcolorant in the liquid. This is important when it is employed to applypre-operative liquid to indicate to the user where the liquid has beenapplied.

[0011] Additional aspects of the invention, together with the advantagesand novel features appurtenant thereto, will be set forth in part in thedescription which follows, and in part will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art upon examination of the following, or may be learnedfrom the practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of theinvention may be realized and attained by means, instrumentalities andcombinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] In the accompanying drawings which form a part of thespecification and are to be read in conjunction therewith, and in whichlike reference numerals are employed to indicate like parts in thevarious views:

[0013]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a liquid applicator constructed inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0014]FIG. 2 is a side plan view of a liquid applicator constructed inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention with a portion of theapplicator body removed to expose the ampoule and the porous plug;

[0015]FIG. 3 is a side plan view of a liquid applicator constructed inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention exposing the ampoulebeing fractured and the liquid flowing through the porous plug;

[0016]FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view taken generallyacross line 4-4 of FIG. 3;

[0017]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a liquid applicator constructed inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0018]FIG. 6 is a side plan view of a liquid applicator constructed inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention exposing the ampoulesbeing fractured and the liquid flowing through the porous plug; and

[0019]FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the vent located at the distance ofan applicator constructed in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention enclosed by line 7 in FIG. 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] A liquid applicator for applying a desired colored liquid to asurface is provided. The applicator comprises a hollow body defining aninternal chamber to receive at least one ampoule formed of a frangiblematerial and containing the liquid to be applied. The liquid applicatorfurther comprises at least one porous element containing colorantpositioned such that upon fracturing at least one ampoule, the liquidflows though the porous element(s) containing colorant. Colorant istransferred to the liquid as it flows through the porous elementcontaining colorant. The resulting colored solution may be applied tothe desired surface.

[0021] The ampoule(s) may be used for containing various liquids such asmedicaments, cleansing agents, cosmetics, polishes or the like. Further,it will be appreciated that the ampoule(s) may be numerous differentshapes and sizes depending on the amount of liquid needed to be applied.For example, the applicator of the present invention may include longcylindrical ampoule(s) or may contain vial-type ampoule(s). Furthermore,more than one ampoule may be received by the body. Preferably, theampoule(s) are formed of glass, although other materials are entirelywithin the scope of the present invention. The wall of the ampoules isof a thickness sufficient to contain the desired liquid during transportand storage, yet allow the ampoule to be fractured upon the applicationof localized pressure.

[0022] The body of the present embodiment of the invention may take manyforms. The body has an internal chamber that is adapted to receive atleast one ampoule. The body may also be shaped to hold multipleampoules. In one form, the body is shaped to generally conform to theampoule(s) contained within the body.

[0023] The porous element of the present invention also may take manyforms. The porous element may be a porous plug and/or a porous pad. Inother words, colorant may be contained in or on a porous plug locatedwithin the body of the applicator between the ampoule and an open end ofthe body. Colorant may be contained in or on a porous pad located at anopen end of the body. The porous element is positioned such that whenthe ampoule(s) is fractured, the liquid flows through the porous elementand colorant is transferred to the liquid to be applied. The porouselement may be made of any porous material that allows liquid to flowthrough the material. The porous element may be, but is not limited to,a fabric, foam or a felt material. Colorant may be saturated throughoutthe porous element or colorant may be placed only on part of the elementdepending the amount of colorant need to achieve the desired color forthe liquid.

[0024] Colorant may be a tint, pigment, dye, paint or any othersubstance that imparts or changes a hue of a liquid. For example, F D &C colorants may be used with the present embodiment of the invention.Furthermore, any combination of colorants may be used.

[0025] The ampoule(s) contained within the body of the applicator may bebroken by any method known to those skilled in the art. These include,but are not limited to, squeezing the walls of the body inwardly tobreak the ampoule(s), using a lever or other mechanism to break theampoule(s), or utilizing projecting wings with tappets as describedbelow.

EXAMPLE 1

[0026] Referring to the drawings in general and initially to FIG. 1 andFIG. 2 in particular, where like reference numerals identify likeelements in the various views, a liquid applicator manifesting aspectsof the invention is illustrated and designated generally by the numeral10. The liquid applicator 10 generally includes a body 12, at least oneclosed ampoule for containing liquid 14 received in the body 12, andporous pad 16 secured to body 12. In the illustrated embodiment, theliquid applicator 10 also includes a porous plug 15 that containscolorant.

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, the ampoule 14 contains anantiseptic solution to be applied to a patient's skin prior to surgery.The antiseptic used in the illustrated embodiment is chlorohexadinegluconate. However, any liquid may be used with the liquid applicator ofthe embodiment of the present invention. The ampoule 14 is illustratedas an elongated cylinder, which defines a central longitudinal axis.However, it will be appreciated that the principles of the presentinvention also may be applied to spherical or elongated polygonalampoules. Preferably, the ampoule 14 is formed of glass, although othermaterials are entirely within the scope of the present invention.

[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, body 12, is of a generally hollowcylindrical shape and includes axially opposed first and second ends 18,20 and presents a central longitudinal axis “x”. The proximal first end18 is open and the distal second end 20 is closed. The illustrated body12 is formed of high-density polyethylene, although any materialexhibiting similar flexibility and integrity may be used in theillustrated embodiment, the second end 20 is closed during the moldingprocess obviating the need for a cap or the like. However, the secondend may be open or may be closed using a cap. The illustrated body 12 iselongated and defines a central longitudinal axis, which is collinearwith the central longitudinal axis of the ampoule 14. Preferably, thethickness of the wall is between 0.012-0.150 inches. More preferably,the thickness of the wall is approximately 0.050 inches.

[0029] Body 12 includes an interior wall 21, which defines an internalchamber 22 within body 12. Interior wall 21 is shaped to conformgenerally with the shape of the ampoule 14, which is received within theinternal chamber 22. With reference to FIG. 4, the circumference of theinterior wall 21 is slightly larger than the outer surface of theampoule body such that a plurality of inwardly projecting ridges 40positioned on the interior wall 21 of the hollow body 12 supports theampoule 14 therein. Preferably, the interior wall 21 includes fourinwardly projecting ridges 40, which are offset from one another byapproximately 90 degrees around the interior wall 21 of body 12. Theridges 40 engage the periphery of the ampoule to maintain the ampoule 14within the internal chamber 22 and prevent untoward movement of shardsof the ampoule through the porous pad 16 when fracturing of the ampouleis affected, as more fully described below.

[0030] Referring again to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, body 12 further presents aflange 24 protruding from the open end 18 along the periphery thereof.In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 24 is continuously molded tothe body 12 and is disposed at an angle of 45 degrees, with respect tothe central longitudinal axis of the body. The flange 24 is adapted tosupport the porous pad 16, as more fully described below.

[0031] Body 12 also includes a pair of elongated gripping members 26, 28which are diametrically opposed and project from the body. Each grippingmember 26, 28 include an attachment portion 30 outwardly extending fromthe body 12 and a handling portion 32 extending from the distal end ofthe attachment portion 30.

[0032] Body 12 also includes structure for fracturing the ampoule 14. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the structure includes breaking tabs ortappets 36, 38 interposed between the gripping members 26, 28 and thebody 12. Upon depression of the gripping members 26, 28, the breakingtabs 36, 38 flex the body 12 inwardly, thereby localizing the forceseffected by squeezing the members 26, 28 toward one another andenhancing fracturing of the ampoule 14 as more fully described below. Itwill be appreciated, however, that the principles of the presentinvention are equally applicable to various other structures and methodsfor fracturing the ampoule 14.

[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid applicator 10 of thepresent invention is constructed to house a 6.0 ml or 10.5 ml ampoule.It will be understood and appreciated, however, that various numbers ofampoules and ampoules of various sizes may be utilized and such iscontemplated to be within the scope of the present invention.

[0034] In the illustrated example, a porous pad 16 such as a sponge orthe like closes off the open end 18 of the body 12. The porous pad 16 isreceived on flange 24 and encloses the ampoule 14 within the internalchamber 22. The porous pad 16 is disposed at angle 45 degrees withrespect to the central longitudinal axis of the body 12. Thus, theliquid may be released to flow by gravity upon fracture of the ampoule14 to the porous pad 16 affixed to the open end 18 of body 12.

[0035] The porous pad 16 is formed of felt or an open-celled foammaterial that is laminated on one side with a laminate material. Thelaminated felt material used in the illustrated embodiment wasNovonnete® SP-64 (3905) Polyester (Non-Woven) was laminated to0.360″±0.032″ SIF-# 3-1000Z felt, (Natural Color Non-Pigmented)Reticulated Polyester Urethane. The laminate material may also be awoven or non-woven polyester material such as polyethylene. The laminatematerial of the porous pad 16 is positioned between the open-celled foammaterial and the flange 24 of the body 12. By employing a porous padhaving a laminate as described herein, numerous advantages are realized.For example, the material presents a physical barrier that resistspuncture by glass fragments of the fractured ampoule. Further, thelaminate material also increases the bond strength of pad 16 to body 12.

[0036] The illustrated porous pad 16 is cut from a sheet of spongematerial having the desired porosity for the liquid to be dispensed,whereby liquid is prevented from flowing immediately through the pad 16when the ampoule 14 is fractured. In other words, once an ampoule 14 isfractured, the released liquid saturates porous plug 15 and thensaturates pad 16 and flows from pad 16 only as the surface absorbs theliquid from the saturated pad 16. Consequently, the body 12 essentiallyfunctions as a reservoir of the desired liquid. The porous pad 16 ispreferably generally circular in shape although it will be appreciatedthat the pad may be of any desired size and shape, which is capable ofbeing supported on the flange 24.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, porous plug 15 is positionedbetween porous pad 16 and ampoule 14. Porous plug 15 may be any porousmaterial. In the illustrated embodiment, the porous plug is anopen-celled foam material or felt, preferably, Novonnete® SP-64 (3905)Polyester (Non-Woven) was laminated to 0.360″±0.032″ SIF-# 3-1000Z felt,(Natural Color Non-Pigmented) Reticulated Polyester Urethane. Thediameter of porous plug 15 is approximately 0.709 inches. Porous plug 15helps control the rate liquid flows from the body and prevents shards ofglass from pushing through porous pad 16 during use of the applicator.Porous plug 15 is cut from a sheet of foam or felt material having thedesired porosity for the liquid to be dispensed. In the illustratedembodiment, colorant is contained with the porous plug. Further, in theillustrated embodiment the colorant contained in the porous plug was CASNo. 2353-45-9 FD&C Green #3 dye. The porous plug containing colorantutilized in the illustrated embodiment was prepared using the methoddescribed in Example 3

[0038] During formation of the applicator, the ampoule 14 is insertedinto the internal chamber 22 of the body 12. Thereafter, the porous plug15 is inserted into the internal chamber of the body 12 between ampoule14 and flange 24. Then the porous pad 16 is secured to the body 12 ofthe applicator by welding the laminate material to the flange 24 usingan ultrasonic welding operation. The polyester material of the laminateprovides suitable welding material that melts together with the materialof the flange 24 to secure the porous pad 16 in place over the internalchamber 22 and enclose the ampoule 14. Securing the porous pad 16 on theflange 24 in this manner facilitates preventing leakage between theflange 24 and the pad 16. It will be appreciated that other suitablesecuring expedients could be employed in place of the ultrasonic weldingoperation. For example, the porous pad 16 could be secured in place byan adhesive or stitching, or by heat sealing or chemically bonding thepad in place. Such alternative securing expedients are contemplated tobe within the scope of the present invention.

[0039] With reference to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, in use, the applicator 10presents a hand-held liquid applicator that is squeezed to release thedesired liquid contained therein for application to a surface. Theapplicator 10 is designed to be grasped by the user so that the grippingmembers 26, 28 are held between the thumb or palm and fingers of onehand of the user, thus allowing for single-handed operation. The ampoule14 is fractured by the user squeezing the gripping members 26, 28 towardone another. The movement of the members 26, 28 is transferred by thetabs 36, 38 to the body 12 to deform the body 12 inwardly and exertdiscrete localized fracturing forces against the ampoule 14. Thegripping members provide a lever action that gains mechanical advantageas the members are squeezed toward one another. Accordingly, if the userhas limited gripping strength, or if the wall of the ampoule isexceptionally thick, the members ensure fracturing of the ampoule.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 3, once the members 26, 28 have beensufficiently squeezed together, the resulting forces fracture theampoule 14 releasing the liquid contained therein. Once ampoule 14 isfractured, body 12 essentially functions as a reservoir of the desiredliquid. The released liquid under the force of gravity flows down body12, through porous plug 15 saturating the porous plug 15 which containscolorant. Consequently, the liquid flows through the porous plug 15 andcolorant is transferred to the liquid. The colored liquid 19 then flowsthrough open end 18 and through porous pad 16 which may also containcolorant. As the liquid flows through the porous pad 16, colorant istransferred from the pad to the liquid. Thereafter, application of thecolored liquid 19 is accomplished by bringing porous pad 16 into contactwith the desired surface. The user may then use a painting or scrubbingmotion to apply the liquid to the surface. The entire process offracturing ampoule 14 and applying the liquid to a desired surface isachieved with the use of only one hand of the user.

EXAMPLE 2

[0041] With reference FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, in particular, where likereference; numerals identify like elements in the various views, anembodiment of the liquid applicator is illustrated and designatedgenerally by the numeral 41. Liquid applicator 41 generally includes abody 42, and a porous pad 44 secured to flange 46 of body 42 and a lever48.

[0042] Two ampoules 50 and 52 are received in body 42. The liquidapplicator 41 is constructed to house two 13 ml ampoules. The thicknessof the walls of the 13 ml ampoules is about 0.3 mm. However, ampoules ofvarious sizes may be used. Ampoules 50 and 52 may be used for containingvarious liquids such as medicaments, cleansing agents, cosmetics,polishes or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, ampoules 50 and 52contain antiseptic solution to be applied to a patient's skin prior tosurgery. Ampoules 50 and 52 are illustrated as elongated cylinders witha central longitudinal axis. However, it will be appreciated that theprinciples of the present invention also may be applied to spherical orelongated polygonal ampoules. Furthermore, it will be appreciated thatthe principles of the present invention may be applied to more than twoampoules.

[0043] Preferably, ampoules 50 and 52 are formed of glass, althoughother materials are entirely within the scope of the present invention.In the illustrated embodiment, ampoules 50 and 52 are placed side byside within body 42. The wall of glass ampoules 50 and 52 is of athickness sufficient to contain the desired liquid during transport andstorage, yet allow ampoules 50 and 52 to be fractured upon theapplication of localized pressure.

[0044] Body 42 is generally hollow and oval or elliptical in shape andincludes axially opposed first and second ends 54, 56. The proximalfirst end 54 is open and distal second end 56 is closed with cap 58.Illustrated body 42 is formed of high-density polyethylene, although anymaterial exhibiting similar flexibility and integrity may be used. Inthe illustrated embodiment, body 42 and cap 58 were molded with 100%virgin material DOW, HDPE, Resin # 12454N, as defined in FDA Master FileNumber 4251. In the preferred embodiment, second end 56 is closed withcap 58, however second end may also be closed during the molding processobviating the need for a cap or the like.

[0045] Body 42 includes an interior wall 60 which defines an internalchamber 62 within body 42. Interior wall 60 is shaped to conformgenerally with the shape of ampoules 50 and 52 which are received withininternal chamber 62. The circumference of interior wall 60 is slightlylarger than the outer surface of the two ampoule bodies. Dividing wall64 of hollow body 42 separates ampoules 50 and 52 and maintains ampoules50 and 52 within internal chamber 62. Illustrated body 42 is elongatedand defines a central longitudinal axis “x”.

[0046] The thickness of the wall of the applicator may be between 0.040to 0.080 inches and preferably is approximately 0.060 inches, exceptthin wall 66. The thickness of the wall of body 42 is reduced aroundcrush area 64. Thin wall 66 may be between 0.020 to 0.040 inches andpreferably is 0.030 inches. However, it will be appreciated thatdifferent wall sizes may be used within the scope of the embodiment ofthe invention. Thin wall 66 makes it easier for crush portion 68 oflever 48 to fracture multiple ampoules when lever 48 is depressed. Thiswill be discussed in more detail later.

[0047] Body 42 further presents a flange 46 protruding from proximal end54 along the periphery thereof. In the preferred embodiment, flange 46is continuously molded to body 42 and is disposed at an angle.Preferably, flange 46 is disposed an angle of 45°, with respect to thecentral longitudinal axis of the body. It will be appreciated thatflange 46 may be disposed at a variety of angles with respect to thecentral longitudinal axis of body 42. Flange 46 is adapted to supportporous pad 44, as more fully described below.

[0048] Porous pad 44, such as a sponge or the like, closes off open end54 of body 42. Porous pad 44 is received on flange 46 and enclosesampoules 50 and 52 within internal chamber 62. Porous pad 44 may beformed of felt or an open-celled foam material. In the illustratedembodiment, porous pad 44 was formed of SIF-# 3-1000Z felt, (NaturalColor Non-Pigmented) Reticulated Polyester Urethane.

[0049] Porous pad 44 is cut from a sheet of foam or felt material havingthe desired porosity for the liquid to be dispensed. Porous pad 44 ispreferably generally square in shape although it will be appreciatedthat the pad may be of any desired size and shape which is capable ofbeing supported on flange 46.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, a woven or non-woven laminatematerial is laminated to porous pad 44. The material laminate materialmay be a woven or non-woven polyester material. In the illustratedembodiment, Novonnete® SP-64 (3905) Polyester (Non-Woven) was laminatedto 0.360″±0.032″ SIF-# 3-1000Z felt, (Natural Color Non-Pigmented)Reticulated Polyester Urethane. The laminate material is positionedbetween porous pad 44 and flange 46 of body 42. As such, the laminatematerial functions to prevent shards of glass from the fracturedampoules from pushing through the porous pad during use of theapplicator. The laminate material also provides a suitable weldingmaterial for securing the porous pad in place on the body when anultrasonic welding operation is used to manufacture the applicator.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, porous plug 70 is positionedbetween porous pad 44 and ampoules 50 and 52. Porous plug 70 may be anopen-celled foam material or felt. In the illustrated embodiment,Novonette® SP-64 (3905) Polyester (Non-Woven) was laminated to0.360″±0.032″ SIF-#3-1000Z Felt, (Natural Color Non-Pigmented)Reticulated Polyester Urethane. Porous plug 70 helps control the rateliquid flows from the body and prevents shards of glass from pushingthrough porous pad 44 during use of the applicator. Porous plug 70 iscut from a sheet of foam or felt material having the desired porosityfor the liquid to be dispensed. In the illustrated embodiment, colorantis contained with the porous plug. Further, in the illustratedembodiment the colorant contained in the porous plug was CAS No.2353-45-9 FD&C Green #3 dye. The porous plug containing colorantutilized in the illustrated embodiment was prepared using the methoddescribed in Example 3.

[0052] Body 42 also includes a lever 48 projecting from the top portionof body 42. However, it will be appreciated that lever 48 may projectfrom any portion of body 42. Lever 48 is any mechanism for fracturingmore than one ampoule at substantially the same time. Lever 48, includeshinge portion 72, crush portion 68 and handling portion 74 extendingfrom the distal end of lever 48. Preferably, lever 48 extends outwardlyfrom body 42 at an angle of between 20° and 40° with respect to thecentral longitudinal axis of body 42. More preferably, lever 48 extendsfrom body 42 at approximately 27° with respect to the centrallongitudinal axis “x” of body 42. It will be appreciated that lever 48may be disposed at a variety of angles with respect to the centrallongitudinal axis of body 42.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, lever 48 is continuously moldedwith body 42. It will be understood and appreciated, however, thatseparately formed levers are contemplated to be within the scope of thepresent invention.

[0054] Handling portion 74 of lever 48 of the illustrated embodiment isspaced between 0.5 and 1.5 inches from body 42. Preferably, handlingportion 74 is spaced approximately 1.0 inch from body 42. Handlingportion 74 of lever 48 includes a textured outer surface to facilitatehandling of applicator 41 and to inhibit slippage from the user's handduring application.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, lever 48 includes crush portion 68and hinge portion 72 attached to body 42. It will be appreciated,however, that the principles of the present invention are equallyapplicable to various other structures for fracturing ampoules 50 and52, such as multiple crush portions, multiple hinge portions and a crushportion that may be attached or detached to body 42. Handling portion 74of lever 48 presents a gripping area which is significantly larger thanthe area of crush portion 68. Upon depression of lever 48, crush portion68, flexes body 42 inwardly at thin wall 66, thereby localizing theforces effected by depressing lever 48 toward body 42 and enhancingfracturing of ampoules 50 and 52 as more fully described below.

[0056] Several features of lever 48 of the illustrated embodimentenhance the ability to fracture at least two ampoules at the same timeincluding: the thickness of lever 48, the curvature of lever 48, supportrib 76, the thickness of hinge portion 72 and the width of crush portion68. The thickness of lever 48 is approximately 0.080 to 0.15 inches andpreferably is 0.11 inches. In the illustrated embodiment, lever 48 isapproximately 2.35 inches long. Hinge portion 72 of the illustratedembodiment is thinner than the rest of lever 48. Hinge portion 72 isapproximately 0.040 to 0.080 inches thick, preferably 0.060 inchesthick. The curvature of lever 48 and support rib 37 increase theleverage of handling portion 74 of lever 48 making it easier for theuser to fracture two ampoules substantially simultaneously.

[0057] The ratio of the width of crush portion 68 to the width ofampoules 50 and 52 side by side is important with respect to reliablebreakage of ampoules 50 and 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the widthof the crush portion 68 had to be at least approximately {fraction(1/5)} the width of the two ampoules side by side to produce breakage ofthe ampoules almost simultaneously. The width of the two ampoules sideby side was approximately 1.03 inches. The minimum width of the crushportion of the lever that produces breakage of the ampoules almostsimultaneously was 0.200 inches. Thus, a length aspect ratio forreliable ampoule break was 1.03/0.200 or 5.15. All of these features,either singularly or in combination, along with thin wall 66, helpenhance the ability of the lever to break multiple ampoules at the sametime.

[0058] With reference to FIG. 7, vent 80 of the illustrated embodimentis shown. Vent 80 is located at distal end 56 of body 42. Vent 80 is asmall cut out portion of body 42 allowing air to flow from internalchamber 62 of body 42 to the outside of body 42 and vice versa. This isaccomplished by a small cut out portion of body 42 starting on theoutside of body 42, going over the lip of body 42 and continuing insidebody 42. Internal cut out portion 82, external cut out portion 84 andcut out lip 86 allow air to flow in and out of internal chamber 62 ofbody 42 underneath cap 58. Cap 58 entirely seals off internal chamber 62except for cut out vent 80.

[0059] Restraint element 78 is positioned between ampoules 50 and 52 andporous plug 70. Restraint element 78 allows liquid to flow from body 42,through porous plug 70 and into porous pad 44. Restraint element 78restrains ampoules 50 and 52 in a position to facilitate properbreaking. Restraint element 78 holds the ends of ampoules 50 and 52 nearcrush point 64 so that the ends of ampoules are properly broken and donot restrict the flow of liquid. Restraint element 78 may take a varietyof shapes depending on the type of liquid to be applied. In theillustrated embodiment, restraint element 78 has two fan-shapedopenings.

[0060] In use, applicator 41 presents a hand-held liquid applicatorwherein lever 48 is depressed to release the desired liquid containedwithin ampoules 50 and 52 therein for application to a surface.Applicator 41 of the illustrated embodiment is grasped by one hand of auser. The bottom of body 42 is grasped with the palm and fingers ofuser, the user's fingers wrap around the bottom and side of the body 42so the tips of the user's fingers rest on the top of body 42. The thumbof the same hand is positioned on handling portion 74 of lever 48allowing for single-handed operation. The user depresses lever 48 towardbody 42 to fracture ampoules 50 and 52. The movement of lever 48 istransferred by crush portion 68 to thin wall 66 of body 42 to deformbody 42 inwardly and exert discrete localized fracturing forces againstampoules 50 and 52. Lever 48 provides an action that gains mechanicaladvantage as lever 48 is depressed toward body 42. Accordingly, if theuser has limited gripping strength, or if the wall of the ampoule isexceptionally thick, the lever ensures fracturing of the ampoules.

[0061] Once lever 48 has been sufficiently depressed, the resultingforces fracture ampoules 50 and 52 almost simultaneously, thus releasingthe liquid contained in each ampoule. The released liquid under theforce of gravity flows down body 42, saturating porous plug 70 whichcontains colorant. Consequently the liquid flows through porous plug 70and colorant is transferred to the liquid. The colored liquid 90 flowsthrough open end 54 and through porous pad 44. Thereafter, applicationof the colored liquid 90 is accomplished by bringing porous pad 44 intocontact with the desired surface. Thereafter, application of the liquidis accomplished by bringing porous pad 44 into contact with the desiredsurface. The user may then use a painting or scrubbing motion to applythe liquid to the surface. The entire process of fracturing ampoules 50and 52 and applying the liquid to a desired surface is achieved with theuse of only one hand of the user

EXAMPLE 3

[0062] In this example, colorant is contained in the porous plug of theapplicator. The illustrated example was done for both 10.5 mL porousplugs and 26 mL porous plugs. The material used for the porous plug wasNovonette SP-64 (3905) Polyester (Non-Woven) Laminated to 0.320inchest+/−0.030 inches open cell, (Natural Color Non-Pigmented)Polyester Urethane Reticulated Foam 80-100 PPI. The diameter of the 10.5mL porous plug was 0.709 and its thickness was 0.023 inches. The size ofthe 26 mL porous plug was 1.06 inches×0.57 inches and it had a thicknessof 0.023 inches. The equipment used included a 5 gallon nalgene carboycontainer with pouring spout, air motor, 3″ stainless steel shaft, 3″folding blade mixing propeller, and a Metek digital tachometer—Model1726 to measure shaft RPM.

[0063] Colorant is added to the porous plugs using the following method.First, the tint to alcohol ratio (grams of tint/grams of 70% isopropylalcohol (IPA)) was determined to ensure a consistent color shade whenapplied to the treatment area. The following calculations were use todetermine the tint to alcohol ratio: $\begin{matrix}{\begin{matrix}{5\quad {gallons}\quad {of}\quad 70\%} \\{IPA}\end{matrix} = {\frac{\begin{matrix}5 \\{{Gal}.}\end{matrix}}{1} \times \frac{3785.412\quad {mL}}{1\quad {{Gal}.}} \times \frac{\begin{matrix}0.879 \\{grams}\end{matrix}}{mL}}} \\{\quad {= {16,637\quad {grams}\quad {of}\quad {IPA}}}} \\\left. \frac{\begin{matrix}{{Grams}\quad {of}\quad {green}} \\{\# 3}\end{matrix}}{\begin{matrix}{16,637\quad {grams}} \\{{of}\quad {IPA}}\end{matrix}}\rightarrow{{grams}\quad {of}\quad {green}\quad {\# 3}} \right. \\{= {{16,637\quad {{gr}.\quad {IPA}} \times 0.00375} = {62.39\quad {{gr}.\quad {of}}\quad {green}\quad {\# 3}}}}\end{matrix}$

[0064] The tint to alcohol ratio for consistent color with CAS No.2353-45-9 FD&C Green #3 dye was approximately 0.00375.

[0065] Five (5) gallons of 70% IPA (16.64 Kg) was added to the five (5)gallon carboy container. Then 62.4 grams of CAS No. 2353-45-9 FD&C Green#3 dye was added to the five (5) gallons of 70% IPA. The carboycontainer was placed onto a cart containing an air motor fixture. Theair motor was dropped down and secured to the fixture while the shaftand propeller were centered through the carboy opening. The solution wasmixed with a shaft rotation of 500 rmp for thirty (30) minutes to ensuretotal dissolution of the dye into the 70% IPA.

[0066] After the dye had thoroughly dissolved into 70% IPA, the safetydispensing jug was removed from the mixer apparatus and closure cap wastightened. The solution was poured into a tank with a correspondingdipping basket. The porous plugs were placed into a dipping basket andlowered into the tank. Solution was added as necessary until porousplugs were completely saturated in dyed solution. The dipping basket wasremoved from the tank and excess solution was drained. The wet porousplugs were placed onto surface covered with plastic to dry for 24 hours.

[0067] Thirty random porous plug samples were obtained and theirindividual wet weights were recorded and analyzed with the aid ofMINITAB statistical analysis software package. As may be seen in theresults below, the average wet weight was about two (2) grams, while thelowest weight measured was close to 1.8 grams and the highest was 2.1grams. The following Tables 1, 2 and 3 list the properties of the tintedporous plugs of the present example. TABLE 1 Process Data USL (UpperSpecification Limit) 2.2500 LSL (Lower Specification Limit) 1.7500 Mean2.0061 Sample Number 30 Standard Deviation (Within) 0.0825230 StandardDeviation (Overall) 0.0816697

[0068] Constructed and operated as previously described, this inventionprovides a liquid applicator and a method of coloring a liquid. Morespecifically, the present invention relates to a liquid applicatorhaving a flexible hollow body within which a liquid-filled, glassampoule is received. The liquid applicator also has porous elementhaving colorant closing off an open end of the body. When the ampoule isfractured, the liquid flows through the porous element having colorant.Colorant is transferred to the liquid as it flows through the porouselement having colorant. The resulting colored solution may be appliedto the desired surface.

[0069] From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is onewell adapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set forthtogether with other advantages which are obvious and which are inherentin the structure. It will be understood that certain features andsubcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference toother features and subcombinations. This is contemplated by and iswithin the scope of the claims. Since many possible embodiments may bemade of the invention without departing from the scope thereof, it is tobe understood that all matter herein set forth or shown in theaccompanying drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in alimiting sense.

Having thus described the invention, what is claimed is:
 1. A method ofmaking a liquid applicator, the applicator shaped for receiving afrangible ampoule containing a liquid to be applied, the methodcomprising: providing a substantially hollow body adapted to receive atleast one ampoule; and positioning at least one porous elementcomprising colorant such that liquid flows through said element when theat least one ampoule is fractured and at least some of the colorant istransferred to the liquid to be applied.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the at least one porous element is a porous pad.
 3. The methodof claim 1, wherein the at least one porous element is a porous plug. 4.The method of claim 1, further comprising: coupling to said body atleast one mechanism for fracturing the at least one ampoule.
 5. Themethod of claim 4, wherein the at least one mechanism flexes said bodyinwardly to exert a fracturing force against the ampoule.
 6. The methodof claim 5, wherein the at least one mechanism includes elongatedgripping members which are diametrically opposed and project from thebody.
 7. The method of claim 5, wherein the at least one mechanism is alever.
 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising: securing to saidbody a porous pad, said pad positioned to close off said open end ofsaid body, such that liquid flows into said body and through saidelement when the ampoule is fractured.
 9. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising: saturating the at least one porous element with colorant.10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: allowing the at least oneporous element to dry.
 11. A liquid applicator for applying a desiredliquid to a surface, the applicator comprising: at least one ampouleformed of a frangible material and adapted to contain liquid to beapplied; at least one hollow body defining an internal chamber adaptedto receive the at least one ampoule; and at least one porous elementcomprises at least one F, D & C colorant, wherein the porous element ispositioned such that liquid flows through the porous element when the atleast one ampoule is fractured and colorant is transferred to the liquidto be applied.
 12. The liquid applicator as recited in claim 11, whereinthe porous element is a porous pad.
 13. The liquid applicator as recitedin claim 11, wherein the porous element is a porous plug.
 14. The liquidapplicator as recited in claim 11, further comprising a mechanism forfracturing the at least one ampoule.
 15. The liquid applicator asrecited in claim 11, wherein the porous element is imbibed withcolorant.
 16. The liquid applicator as recited in claim 11, wherein thecolorant is located on one or more surface of the porous element.